SJEarthquakes.com:
When did you find out you’d be Fans of the Match, and how did you react?
Melody Payne-Engel:
I contacted Trevor about 2 weeks ago about possible ideas for surprising Mark with something and the following week we talked and he said there was the possibility of him doing the first goal. I was absolutely blown away and excited, but knew it wasn't for sure. I received a call from Trevor on the 30th saying he had been able to arrange for Mark to be fan of the match. I was and am so beyond excited! I actually jumped up and down a few times. My dog thinks I'm crazy, I'm sure. Then called my mom to tell her the amazing news. My husband hates surprises so I have never been able to do anything really special for him without him knowing. It is hard not showing how excited I really am.
SJEQ:
What was it like becoming a Season Ticket Holder the same year the stadium opened in 2015?
MP:
The excitement of being a season ticket holder was amplified. The atmosphere was electric and our rep, Danny, was amazing and made sure we were aware of all the opportunities available to us as STH.
SJEQ:
We heard you’re celebrating your wedding anniversary at the match! How special will it be to share that moment with your Quakes family?
MP:
We are! It is going to be really special. Going to games at Buck Shaw and Mark teaching me about soccer was a big part of our dating. We actually met at a FC Gold Pride game. We have made so many amazing friends through the Quakes that have become like family to us. We look forward to seeing them each week and keeping in contact on Facebook and away from the games too.
SJEQ:
What has been your favorite Quakes memory since becoming Season Ticket Holders?
MP:
There are too many to pick just one. We have had the privilege to participate in a few pregame flag ceremonies which have been a lot of fun. Being on the pitch is incredible. Meeting the players and chatting with them, we have yet to meet one that isn't someone we would want to hang out with on a regular basis, they are all just genuinely great, down-to-earth guys. The opening of Avaya was exciting, meeting so many new friends, the All-Star Game last year was insane, the USMNT qualifier game, there are so many memories that we cherish, and so many more to make.
SJEQ:
How are you feeling about the 2017 season?
MP:
We are really excited about this year. We are seeing a lot of good things from some of the new signings and are enjoying seeing our returning guys looking so good. Overall, the communication seems to be flowing well with the news guys already and we have some beasts out there. Lima was MLS Rookie of the Week the first 2 weeks of the season and just keeps going! We had 9 players called up to international duty. How can you not be excited about that?
SJEQ:
What’s the best part about being an Earthquakes fan?
MP:
The best part of being an Earthquakes fan is being a part of the whole family and the opportunities and experiences that has allowed us. We have made friends away from the games while wearing our Quakes gear because of they see it or we see them in it and say something and start up a conversation. We may not know names or ever see each other again, but for that time, we are family, the Quakes family.
